Can You Freeze Apples? How to Store Apples Long-term

Apple picking season is just around the corner, so prepare yourself for a delightful weekend in the orchard. Many families return home with bags full of apples, but the challenge arises: how do you make the most of your pickings before they spoil? Can you freeze apples long-term? The good news is that you can freeze apple pickings! We will show you how to store apples for freezing for the long haul, ensuring your apples stay fresh and tasty for months.

With our guide, you'll discover how to preserve your harvest for future treats like apple pie and applesauce. So if you want to enjoy your harvest in the form of scrumptious apple pies during the winter months, here’s what you need to know.

How To Store Apples: Picking the Right Variety

Different varieties of apples on a table

Different apple varieties spoil quicker than others so make sure you pick a type that can stand the test of time.

Before you learn how to store apples properly it’s important to understand that they come in all shapes and sizes so some will spoil faster than others. More than that certain varieties of apples have tastes and textures suited for specific purposes. Here's a quick breakdown of how to store apples for whatever dish you plan to whip up in the kitchen. As for how long you can preserve with FoodSaver these apples will last up to five months in home storage:

Granny smith apples are very tart which makes them great for eating and putting in a salad but not for sauce or pies.
Rome apples are thick-skinned, crisp, and mild yet tangy, making them an excellent choice for pies and sauce.
Fuji apples are very sweet and crisp - perfect for sweeter sauces, salads, and pies or for eating fresh.
Mutsu apples have a unique sweet, tart, and spicy profile. Use them in pies or fresh eating. They are not ordinarily recommended for sauce because of their texture.
Gala apples are very sweet when eaten fresh but take on a milder flavor after cooking, making them an all-around good choice for baking, sauce making, and eating fresh.

Finally, make sure whatever apples you're storing are free of bruises or soft spots; as the adage goes, one bad apple can spoil the bunch.

How to Freeze Apples

Steps to freeze apples using a vacuum sealer

Still, storing apples for months takes very precise work. Humidity and temperature need to be tediously controlled, and farmers regularly put specific atmospheric conditions in place to extend the fruit's lifespan.

If pies and sauces are what you desire, using your FoodSaver® Vacuum Sealer to learn how to freeze apples for easier and more efficient storage. Here's how you do it.

Wash and Peel: Start by thoroughly washing your apples to remove any dirt or pesticides. Peel the apples if you prefer, although leaving the skin on is also an option.
Core and Slice: Remove the core and slice the apples into even pieces. Uniform slices ensure they freeze and thaw evenly.
Prevent Browning (Optional): Prevent browning by soaking the apple slices in a mixture of lemon juice and cold water for about 5 minutes.
Add Sugar & Spice Mixture (For Pies): Can you freeze pie filling? Yes!—Toss them in the sugar and spice mixture you use to make your pies for flavor prep.
Place in Vacuum Seal Bags: Transfer the frozen slices to vacuum-sealed bags or containers.
Freeze and Label: Place your vacuum-sealed apples into the freezer. Label them with the date and type of apple for easy identification.

Now you can pop out those wedges at any time to make a fresh pie from frozen pie filling or any tasty apple recipe. Although optional, some bakers prefer to give the apples extra protection against browning by soaking them in lemon or other citrus and cold water before tossing them in the sugar and spice mix. If you do this, drain the acid or water mixture very well beforehand so it doesn't affect the flavor of the pie.

For more detailed guides and expert tips on food preservation, visit the FoodSaver Blog to start storing food like a preservation pro.

Understanding How to Store Apples by Freezing

Preserving apples long-term doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you choose freezing apples, refrigeration, or preserving apples through dehydration, there are plenty of ways to keep your apples fresh and delicious. By following these tips and techniques, you'll learn how to freeze apples for long-term storage so you always have a supply for your favorite pies or sauces. Learn how to store apples today and start to enjoy the taste of fresh fruit all year round!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can Apples Last in the Fridge?

When stored correctly, apples can remain fresh in the fridge for several weeks. It's important to regularly inspect them for any signs of spoilage to ensure their quality. Vacuum-sealing apples before refrigeration is an effective method for extending their freshness even further. Before placing them in the fridge, be sure to sort through your apples and discard any that are bruised or damaged.

Can You Freeze Applesauce?

Applesauce is a delightful way to enjoy apples. To freeze apples, cook them in a sauce, cool them completely, and then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. For best results:

Choose apples that are sweet and flavorful.
Leave some space in containers to allow for expansion as the sauce freezes.
Clearly label and date the containers to keep track of freshness.

Can You Freeze Apple Cider?

Yes, you can freeze apple cider! Pour the cider into one of our FoodSaver freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some space for expansion. Once you're ready to enjoy, thaw the cider in the fridge overnight to serve chilled or heat it with spices for a cozy drink. Frozen cider can also be used in recipes such as marinades, sauces, or cocktails. Its versatility makes it a great addition to your freezer.

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